Easy Baked Potato Soup Recipe

Are you looking for a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to make? Look no further! This Easy Baked Potato Soup recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you crave something warm and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting guests, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Read on to discover everything you need to know to prepare this comforting dish, including step-by-step instructions, ingredient lists, and tips for the perfect soup.

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What is Baked Potato Soup?

Baked Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish made with tender potatoes, savory broth, and various toppings like bacon, sour cream, and cheese. It combines the flavors of a classic baked potato with the comfort of a hot, velvety soup. This recipe simplifies the process by using basic ingredients and easy cooking methods, making it accessible to cooks of all skill levels. If you love baked potatoes, this soup is a must-try!

Ingredients List for Baked Potato Soup

To make this Easy Baked Potato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes are perfect for creating a thick and creamy texture.
• 4 slices of bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor that complements the creamy soup.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall flavor with a rich, aromatic punch.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Creates the base for the roux, which thickens the soup.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Combined with butter to form a roux, it helps thicken the soup.
• 4 cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps create the soup’s body.
• 1 ½ cups whole milk: Contributes to the creaminess and richness of the soup.
• ½ cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the flavors.
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Provides a cheesy, comforting flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances the overall taste.
• 2 green onions, chopped: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Optional toppings: Extra shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, and sour cream.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some easy substitutions and variations you can try with this Baked Potato Soup recipe:

• Potatoes: While russet potatoes are ideal for their starchiness, you can substitute Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture. Yukon Golds will make the soup creamier, while red potatoes will add a slight firmness.
• Bacon: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a vegetarian broth. You can also replace bacon with turkey bacon or pancetta for different flavors.
• Cheese: Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack.
• Milk: You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, half-and-half, or even heavy cream for a richer soup. Dairy-free? Use unsweetened almond milk or oat milk instead.
• Toppings: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding crispy fried onions, jalapeños for a kick, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making this Easy Baked Potato Soup is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a delicious, creamy soup in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean, poke them several times with a fork, and place them directly on the oven rack. Bake for 45 to 60 minutes or until the potatoes are soft when pierced with a fork. Remove them from the oven and let them cool. Once cool enough to handle, peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot for added flavor and set the rest aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until the onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Next, add the butter to the pot with the onions and garlic, allowing it to melt completely. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir constantly for about 2 minutes, creating a smooth paste. This forms the roux, which will help thicken the soup.

Step 5: Add Broth and Potatoes

Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps from the roux. Add the chopped baked potatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the soup to thicken.

Step 6: Add Dairy

Stir in the milk, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the soup is creamy and smooth. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon, chopped green onions, extra cheese, and a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for thickening the soup. If you skip this step, your soup may end up too thin.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, so make sure you only sauté it for 1-2 minutes to avoid a bitter taste.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Baking the potatoes for too long can result in mushy pieces. Keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven.
• Adding dairy too quickly: When adding the milk and sour cream, make sure the soup isn’t boiling. Too much heat can cause the dairy to curdle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The presentation of your Baked Potato Soup can elevate the dining experience. Consider these tips to impress your family and friends:

How to Serve Baked Potato Soup

• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, hollow out a small sourdough loaf and ladle the soup into the bread bowl. This adds a rustic, edible element to your presentation.
• Use Mug Bowls: Serve the soup in large mugs for a cozy feel, perfect for casual gatherings or movie nights.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives to give the soup a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for Baked Potato Soup

• Cheese and Bacon Garnish: Arrange shredded cheese and bacon crumbles on top of the soup in a neat pile for a clean, elegant look.
• Swirl of Sour Cream: Use a spoon to drizzle a small swirl of sour cream on the surface of the soup, adding visual appeal.
• Crispy Potato Skins: For an extra gourmet touch, fry the potato skins and use them as a crispy garnish on top of the soup.

Baked Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Prep in Advance: Bake the potatoes the day before and store them in the fridge. This will cut down on your prep time when you’re ready to cook the soup.
• Blending for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to purée the potatoes after adding the broth.
• Extra Creamy Texture: Add a splash of heavy cream along with the milk if you want an extra creamy consistency.
• Leftovers: This soup stores well! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it on the stove over medium heat.

Q: Can I freeze Baked Potato Soup?
A: Absolutely! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove.

Q: Can I make this soup gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch instead of all-purpose flour for the roux to make the soup gluten-free.

Q: How do I thicken my soup if it’s too thin?
A: If your soup turns out thinner than desired, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the soup and cook until it thickens.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Potato Soup recipe is the perfect blend of comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. With crispy bacon, creamy potatoes, and a rich broth, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re making this soup for a weeknight dinner or a weekend get-together, it’s sure to be a hit. Now that you know all the steps and tips, it’s time to get cooking! Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this simple yet satisfying soup, and don’t forget to experiment with toppings and variations to make it your own.

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